They have lots of antioxidants: for one.
The head of nutrition communications for POM Wonderful, Maggie Moon, MS, RD, claims that pomegranate arils are a good source of polyphenol antioxidants. "Polyphenols are a group of bioactive plant compounds with antioxidant properties that are well-known for fending off unstable molecules that can gradually harm your cells. Free radicals are the name for these dangerous molecules, according to Moon.
Pomegranate arils specifically contain anthocyanins, a kind of flavonoid (one of the two classes of polyphenols). Anthocyanins have been linked in studies to a variety of potential health advantages, including lowering blood pressure and slowing the progression of cancer. The stunning ruby hue of pomegranates is a result of anthocyanins. Additionally, fruits typically contain more antioxidants when they are more deeply coloured. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that pomegranates are a rich source.
They are an excellent fibre source:
Each serving of pomegranate arils contains four grammes of fibre, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. About a half cup of apricot arils contains around 15% of the recommended Daily Value (DV) of fibre for adults. In particular, insoluble fibre makes up the majority of the fibre in pomegranates.
Because it keeps things moving through our digestive tracts, insoluble fibre supports the health of our digestive systems (and our overall well-being). It can help us maintain stable blood sugar levels and help us feel full and pleased after meals.
A source of vitamin C.
Per half cup serving, pomegranate arils are a good source of vitamin C, according to Moon. Around 9 milligrammes (mg) of vitamin C are present in that half cup, which is about 10% of the recommended daily allowance (DV) for adults.
Humans cannot make vitamin C on their own, unlike the majority of animals, hence it is essential for our diets. Since vitamin C is an antioxidant in and of itself, it keeps other antioxidants in the body functioning properly. The vitamin is a crucial component of various vital bodily functions, including collagen formation, neurotransmitter synthesis, and protein metabolism. It improves immune system performance and promotes absorption of non-heme iron, which is present in plant-based sources of iron.
They might contribute to better exercises:
Exercise-related benefits are another advantage of the antioxidants in pomegranates. By preventing it from degrading in the body, they "may assist boost nitric oxide bioavailability," according to Moon.
Nitric oxide enhances blood flow during movement by expanding blood vessels, a process known as vasodilation. Nitric oxide, according to Moon, "helps your body acquire the oxygen and nutrition it needs while exercising.
They could reduce inflammation:
Another advantage of the antioxidants present in pomegranates and pomegranate juice is the potential reduction of inflammation in the body, claims Kelsey Lorencz, RDN, nutrition adviser for Fin against Fin. Studies have shown that consuming pomegranate juice on a daily basis can lower inflammatory markers including Interlukin-6 and C-reactive protein,
It is best to include a variety of nutritious foods like pomegranates and other fruits in your diet as chronic inflammation is a precursor to many diseases, including heart disease and diabetes. Aside from food, keep in mind that stress, alcohol consumption, exercise, and autoimmune disorders are also contributing factors to inflammation.
They might contribute to better heart health:
It makes sense that pomegranates are linked to better heart health as inflammation is a major sign for heart disease. In fact, studies suggest that drinking pomegranate juice may help decrease blood pressure.
For people with heart disease, pomegranates and pomegranate juice may have preventive effects: In one research trial, heart patients who drank one cup of pomegranate juice every day reported considerably lower levels of chest pain than the control group did. Additionally, there is research that suggests eating fruits high in polyphenols, like pomegranates, may be beneficial in preventing heart disease.
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